TASS

Finite element codes are commonly used to predict the vehicle deformations during a crash. These codes can predict complex deformations accurately, but are extremely computationally expensive. The design of occupant restraint systems requires that many different variables are analyzed, resulting in hundreds to thousands of simulation runs. To do this in a timely manner requires fast simulations, so MADYMO is typically used for this.

The coupling of MADYMO with FE codes enables safety designers to embed MADYMO models of the dummy and restraint system in their preferred FE crash code. At each time step of the simulation run the coupling interface is used to exchange information between MADYMO and the FE crash code on the forces resulting from the interaction between components modelled in the different codes (e.g. the MADYMO dummy model and the door trim modelled in FE). The combined result of the calculations performed in MADYMO and the FE crash code can be visualized and post-processed in a single graphical tool. Today, coupling is available between MADYMO and LS-DYNA, PAM-CRASH, RADIOSS and ABAQUS.

• Time savings:
  By coupling MADYMO to their prefered FE code, car makers have been able to validate their structural and safety system designs together, without the need for any additional modelling. Since this coupling approach allows the use of a MADYMO dummy model in both the restraint design and the verification of the full vehicle, this approach also leads to a consistent assessment of the safety performance throughout the entire development process.   
  
  One European vehicle OEM which has adopted the coupling approach has seen a 25 percent drop in the time taken to conduct whole vehicle safety system validations as a direct result of the reduced modelling overhead by using a MADYMO dummy model in both the restraint design and the verification of the full vehicle. One carmaker was so impressed with the efficiency and accuracy of the coupling approach that it has changed its supplier requirements, eliminating the need for model data to be delivered in its native FE platform.
• Cost savings:
  The new MADYMO token licensing system makes coupling particularly cost effective. With only 20 MADYMO tokens, a customer gets access to all of our thoroughly validated dummies and these models can be used in both MADYMO and all FEcrash codes. This system is of particular use for suppliers who may deal with different customers, each with their own preferred FE modelling environment.
• Ease-of-Use:
  Coupling Assistant is a dedicated graphical tool - part of the MADYMO Workspace suite - to enable FE code experts to include a MADYMO model (such as a dummy model) in their FE model without having to learn the details of MADYMO. It also reduces the time required to embed MADYMO models in a FE environment.